College ROI Report

Updated 2024

College Salary Report

Best-value Colleges in Idaho

There are only a small number of colleges on the Idaho College Salary Report, but all are strong choices for somebody looking for the best college return on investment in Idaho.

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Find out exactly what you should be paid
RankSchool Name20 Year Net ROI
Total 4 Year Cost
Graduation Rate
Typical Years to Graduate
Average Loan Amount
Rank:1School Name:20 Year Net ROI:$632,000Total 4 Year Cost:$51,500Graduation Rate:54%Typical Years to Graduate:6Average Loan Amount:$22,100
Rank:2School Name:20 Year Net ROI:$500,000Total 4 Year Cost:$88,700Graduation Rate:61%Typical Years to Graduate:4Average Loan Amount:$22,300
Rank:3School Name:
University of Idaho (Out-of-State)
20 Year Net ROI:$423,000Total 4 Year Cost:$166,000Graduation Rate:61%Typical Years to Graduate:4Average Loan Amount:$22,300
Rank:4School Name:20 Year Net ROI:$400,000Total 4 Year Cost:$88,900Graduation Rate:37%Typical Years to Graduate:5Average Loan Amount:$20,900
Rank:5School Name:20 Year Net ROI:$373,000Total 4 Year Cost:$106,000Graduation Rate:60%Typical Years to Graduate:5Average Loan Amount:$29,300
Rank:6School Name:
Idaho State University (Out-of-State)
20 Year Net ROI:$332,000Total 4 Year Cost:$157,000Graduation Rate:37%Typical Years to Graduate:5Average Loan Amount:$20,900
Rank:7School Name:20 Year Net ROI:$308,000Total 4 Year Cost:$76,600Graduation Rate:35%Typical Years to Graduate:5Average Loan Amount:$19,100
Rank:8School Name:
Boise State University (Out-of-State)
20 Year Net ROI:$305,000Total 4 Year Cost:$174,000Graduation Rate:60%Typical Years to Graduate:5Average Loan Amount:$29,300
Rank:9School Name:20 Year Net ROI:$255,000Total 4 Year Cost:$129,000Graduation Rate:35%Typical Years to Graduate:5Average Loan Amount:$19,100
Rank:10School Name:20 Year Net ROI:$205,000Total 4 Year Cost:$188,000Graduation Rate:58%Typical Years to Graduate:4Average Loan Amount:$30,300

Considered part of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho is an often overlooked but seriously beautiful state located in the upper left of the country. The Gem State is covered in soaring mountains and deep river valleys, though it’s perhaps best known for being a large producer of potatoes.

The University of Idaho in Moscow’s mascot may be the Vandal, but when we look at the financial payback of a bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho, it’s the students who really make out like bandits. Famous UI alumni include EE “Doc” Smith, author of the Skylark and Lensman series, and many professional football players.

Another high comes from Idaho State University in Pocatello. This small town school is home to more than 15,000 students. The Bengals have a strong football program, and one of their alumni, Marvin Lewis, went on to become the head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals. ISU is also the alma mater of Home Depot CEO Bruce Nelson.

Finally, Boise State University ‘ a school made recently famous by its improbable rise as a football power since moving into NCAA Division I athletics in 1996 — offers 201 degrees in 190 fields of study and has more than 100 graduate programs. The campus is located in Downtown Boise, covers 175 acres and is home to roughly 22,250 students.